Swiss businessman kidnapped in Philippines
Armed men have abducted a Swiss-Philippine dual national from Zamboanga City, on the southern tip of Mindanao island.
Local police said the 72-year-old hostage has lived in Zamboanga for 40 years and owns a farm and a private beach resort there.
No group has claimed responsibility and the motive is still unknown.
The Swiss foreign ministry confirmed the kidnapping, and a spokesman said it was in close contact with the local authorities. He refused to say whether ransom money had been demanded.
The region’s military chief said it was not yet clear if Abu Sayyaf extremists, known for kidnappings for ransom, bombings and beheadings, were to blame. Other kidnapping gangs operate in the area.
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